Dr. Michael Forney was born in Brawley, California. He grew up in rural northern Nevada, but spent many summers around San Diego where he first began his appreciation for animals around his grandma’s cabin and visiting the San Diego Zoo and Safari Park. He obtained dual bachelor's degrees in biology & Spanish at the University of Nevada, Reno in 2012. He spent time volunteering teaching English in Ecuador before later applying to veterinary school and graduated from the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine in 2018.

Dr. Forney has enjoyed working at VCA Rancho Mirage the past six years and practicing in the Coachella Valley. When not working, Dr. Forney enjoys reading science fiction novels, watching films, cooking, exercising/yoga and laying by the pool. He loves to spend time with his partner, Scott, German shepherd dog, Gertrude, and his grey cat, Gilbert. He also loves to travel whenever possible.